Why wait for the 2027 Scouts? Own this V8 International

This classic International Harvester Scout II may be old, but it has an appeal that newer models can’t match

The new Scout Terra and Traveler SUVs are a hot topic this week, but there’s a catch: They won’t hit production lines until sometime in 2027. That’s nearly three years later – assuming all goes well, which in the automotive world, launches are never a guarantee. So if you’re itching to own a Scout but aren’t willing to wait until the latter half of the decade, you could do worse than buying an original 1979 International Harvester Scout II.

The original Scout was built from 1961 to 1980 by a company with a long history of manufacturing agricultural vehicles and trucks. Despite being out of production for more than four decades, the boxy SUV still holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. This particular example has been listed for sale in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has only covered approximately 32,000 miles (approximately 51,500 km).

More info: These are the new Scout Terra trucks and Traveller SUVs

As you may have guessed, this Scout II doesn’t look exactly like it did when it left the factory in 1979. It was completely refurbished in 2020, when it was repainted in a bolder mint green, which is actually the factory color. It also sports a black rally pattern running along the sides and has several new-looking chrome pieces, including the front bumper and wing mirrors.

The Jeep competitor comes equipped with a set of 15-inch steel wheels shod with 31×10.5-inch Nankang Conquerer A/T tires. Hidden behind those wheels are disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear.

Under the hood is the original 345 cubic-inch V8, although it received a new Holley carburetor and aluminum radiator for 2020. Mated to the V8 is a three-speed automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case. The permanent four-wheel drive system ensures that the Scout II is at home in difficult terrain.

READ: Scout Motors returns to Baja for first time since 1982

Inside, the setup is basic but effective: brown vinyl front seats and a matching rear bench give it a rugged, retro appeal. There’s also an aftermarket air conditioning system – though, fair warning, it’s not cold right now, so if you plan on using it in the dog days of summer, some tinkering will be required.

So if you really want to own a Scout and don’t want to wait until 2027 for a shiny new model, head over to Bring a Trailer and make an offer. Don’t be surprised if the classic charm of this Scout II captures your heart before the new model leaves the factory.